Liberia, a nation rich in natural resources, remains one of the world’s poorest countries after 177 years of independence. This paradox is glaringly evident as ArcelorMittal, the global steel giant, exports iron ore from Liberia’s soil daily, yet the dividends of this wealth elude the Liberian people.
Monrovia, Liberia’s capital city, remains in darkness. Liberia’s roads are crumbling, Liberia’s healthcare system is in crisis, and Liberia’s schools are underfunded. Public transportation is virtually nonexistent, access to clean drinking water is a privilege rather than a right, and decent housing remains out of reach for many. Food insecurity is a daily struggle, youth unemployment is skyrocketing, and social welfare programs are nearly nonexistent. Meanwhile, ArcelorMittal continues to extract iron ore from Liberia’s land, reaping billions in profits while leaving Liberians trapped in poverty. How long must Liberians endure this exploitation?
ArcelorMittal’s history in Liberia is a tale of broken promises and corporate greed. In 2005, the company entered a 25-year Mineral Development Agreement (MDA) with the Liberian government, pledging to contribute to Liberia’s development. The agreement included commitments to invest in infrastructure, provide jobs, and support local communities. Nearly two decades later, what does Liberia have to show for it? A few paved roads and token projects that pale in comparison to the billions of dollars ArcelorMittal has extracted from Liberia’s soil.
The County Social Development Fund (CSDF), which was supposed to provide resources for communities affected by mining operations, has been plagued by allegations of mismanagement and corruption. Millions of dollars meant for schools, hospitals, and public services have disappeared, while affected communities continue to suffer. The company’s failure to ensure that these funds are properly used has left many questioning whether ArcelorMittal ever intended to honor its commitments in the first place.
In 2021, ArcelorMittal faced legal action for violating key provisions of its 2007 concession agreement. The company was accused of defaulting on corporate social responsibility obligations, underreporting government revenue shares, and failing to construct promised hospitals. It was also charged with depriving Liberians of rightful employment opportunities, replacing local workers with foreign labor, and disregarding fair labor practices. These actions paint a picture of a company that prioritizes profit over people, extracting Liberia’s wealth while giving little in return.
One of the most contentious issues is ArcelorMittal’s control over Liberia’s rail and port infrastructure. The company has sought exclusive control over these assets, blocking other potential investors from using them. This monopoly has stifled competition and prevented Liberia from benefiting from additional investments in the mining sector. President Joseph Boakai and his administration have rightly raised concerns, emphasizing the need for equitable access to national infrastructure. But will the government take decisive action, or will it once again bow to corporate pressure?
ArcelorMittal claims to have created jobs for Liberians, but the reality is far less impressive. The company has been accused of failing to provide adequate wages and working conditions. Many local employees work under harsh conditions with little job security, while higher-paying managerial positions are filled by foreign expatriates. The communities surrounding the mines continue to struggle with land degradation, deforestation, and loss of livelihoods, yet ArcelorMittal reaps massive profits without meaningful reinvestment in the people who bear the brunt of its operations.
Liberia is at a crossroads. Liberia can continue down the path of exploitation, allowing companies like ArcelorMittal to dictate the terms of Liberia’s economic future, or Liberia can demand better. Liberia must push for a renegotiation of ArcelorMittal’s concession agreement, ensuring that Liberia receives its fair share of the wealth generated from its resources. The government must enforce strict regulations, demand greater corporate accountability, and ensure that foreign companies operating in Liberia adhere to international best practices.
The time for empty promises is over. Liberia cannot afford to be a spectator in its own development. Liberia must take control of its resources, prioritize the welfare of its citizens, and put an end to the cycle of exploitation that has plagued Liberia for far too long. If ArcelorMittal refuses to honor its obligations, then it is time for Liberia to reconsider whether this partnership is in the best interest of the nation.
Liberia has everything it needs to prosper, but greed and corruption have kept Liberians in chains. It is time to break free. The era of exploitation must end, and a new chapter of accountability and shared prosperity must begin. The future of Liberia depends on the choices Liberia makes today. Will Liberia continue to be exploited, or will Liberia finally demand what is rightfully Liberia’s?
